Cape Town Author Shameez Patel

 

Cape Town Author Shameez Patel Talks Writing, Fantasy, and Flirting with Fiction

Cape Town-based author Shameez Patel recently sat down for an interview on the Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5 FM, discussing her passion for writing, her inspirations, and her latest book, Playing Flirty.

 

A Passion for Storytelling

For Shameez, writing is more than just a creative outlet—it’s a way to explore different worlds. "For a few hours a day, I could become a warrior princess fighting off evil monsters, or I could be a beautiful woman falling in love with the most handsome man in the world," she says. "It’s fun, and you get to live a thousand lives."

She emphasizes that life experiences inevitably shape a writer’s work. While her stories may not be direct reflections of her own life, the emotions—heartbreak, joy, and love—are real. "Your readers can feel it because they know that you’ve actually felt it while writing it," she explains.

Writing with Joy and Purpose

Shameez hopes her books bring readers happiness. "Even in the fantasy trilogy I’ve written, which has dark moments as fantasy often does, I want readers to remember to be hopeful and to feel joy," she says. "For the eight to ten hours they spend with my characters, I want them to smile."

 

From Fantasy to Romantic Comedy

Though best known for her fantasy trilogy, Shameez’s latest book, Playing Flirty, is a standalone rom-com. "It’s about board games, geek culture, and a battle of banter between two competitive characters, Rose and William," she shares.

Her previous trilogy follows Cassia, a med student trying to save her sister from a mysterious illness. The twist? The answers lie in another realm, where her missing best friend is trying to contact her.

Technology and Writing in the AI Era

When asked about AI-generated writing, Shameez is firm in her stance: "I am very much against generative AI for the creation of art. I pour real emotions into my writing, and I want my readers to receive that authenticity."

What’s Next?

Shameez is currently working on another book set in the Playing Flirty universe, focusing on a different member of the game night group. It’s scheduled for release next year.

In addition to writing, Shameez is a self-proclaimed "cozy gamer," enjoying The Sims, Stardew Valley, and Paleo. She also has a deep love for geek culture, anime, and Marvel.

 

Where to Find Her Books

Playing Flirty and her fantasy trilogy are available at Exclusive Books, Bargain Books, Readers Warehouse, Amazon, Google Play, and more.

She will also be appearing at Comic-Con and other book events. "May the 4th be with you," she jokes, referring to her upcoming event on Star Wars Day.

Advice for Aspiring Writers

Her advice? "Just keep writing. Your first draft will be awful, but give yourself some grace. Edit, refine, and make it perfect."

For more updates, follow her on social media at @ShameezWrites.

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